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Uncover the vibrant appeal of Istanbul’s Fener-Balat district, where history and elegance meet a thriving artistic and culinary scene. Led by a local guide, you’ll explore the neighborhood’s unique architecture, creative hotspots, and coffeehouse culture.

First you’ll stop outside the distinctive Greek School, Ozel Fener Rum Lisesi, an architectural masterpiece blending Byzantine and Ottoman influences on its red-brick façade. Follow this with a wander through Balat’s streets, lined with multicoloured houses, vintage boutiques and art galleries. Step into the Balart Art House, where you’ll join a hands-on workshop to paint miniature models of Balat’s famous colorful houses.

Next, soak in the district’s café culture at a local coffeehouse. Here, you’ll enjoy traditional Turkish coffee or tea, paired with a sweet treat. Your guide will share insights into Turkey’s deep-rooted coffee traditions and the societal significance of these social hubs.

For lunch, you’ll get to try Mantı, Balat’s local specialty. These delicate Turkish dumplings, filled with savory ingredients and drizzled with yogurt and spices, offer a true flavor of Istanbul’s diverse culinary heritage.

Finally, visit St. Stephen's Church, a fine example of Gothic Revival architecture and the world’s largest prefabricated cast iron structure. Step inside to admire its gilded interiors complete with columns and delicate ironwork - a reflection of the city’s fusion of styles and cultures.

Immersive, enriching & sustainable guided day tours

Whether you prefer history, culture, gastronomy, conservation, nature, adventure, or photography these tours are designed to satisfy your curiosity.

Access

Immerse yourself in the destinations and attractions you explore through exclusive access and hands-on experiences based on National Geographic’s existing relationships around the globe.

Knowledge

Discover the world through the lens of National Geographic as National Geographic-trained guides and local experts share their knowledge and passion of the places and locations you visit.

Give back

Experience meaningful explorations with a commitment to sustainable tourism, with all tours meeting the Global Sustainable Tourism Council criteria and a portion of proceeds dedicated to fund research.

Local immersion

Become inspired to care about the planet and its people by gaining a deeper understanding of the communities and inhabitants of the places you visit through interaction and insights into their daily lives.

Storytelling

Be a part of the story of each destination you visit through the unparalleled content and research from National Geographic you’ll be exposed to, making you reflect on different current realities.

Why you’ll love this…

Explore the artistic and architectural wonders of Fener-Balat, a historic district transformed into Istanbul’s creative and culinary hub.
Discover the city’s remarkable heritage with a guide specially trained in history and culture, who will show you the famously colorful houses, design boutiques, and contemporary art spaces.
See distinctive architectural landmarks including the Greek School, Ozel Fener Rum Lisesi, with its blend of influences, and the Neo-Gothic St. Stephen's Church, the world’s largest cast iron structure.
Get creative with a hands-on painting workshop at Balart Art House, crafting your own miniature model of Balat’s famous houses.
Experience Turkish coffee culture with a stop at a renowned neighborhood café, enjoying a perfectly brewed cup alongside a traditional sweet, and then try a local favorite - Mantı - Turkish dumplings

Important to know

Not suitable:

This activity is not suitable for wheelchair users

Know in advance:

Toilets are present in the café
Terrain type is fairly even
Distance is approx 1.5 km with a total walking time of 1.5 hrs
Activity level is light
Meal included will be a typical Turkish snack such as gözleme or börek and will be served at the last stop of the tour (Naftalin café)
This tour can host min. 8 and max. 25 people

Remember to bring:

Comfortable clothes, hat, and sunglasses. Walking shoes are recommended

Cancellation policy

Receive a 100% refund if you cancel up to 48 hours before the experience begins.

What’s included

Guided tour
Food tasting
Coffee or tea
Bottled water

This experience meets the Global Sustainable Tourism Council criteria. By choosing this experience you can protect the places you love, care for the environment and support local communities.